During KIDS EXPO PLOVDIV 2026, the area around the "Brotherhood Mound" (Bratskata Mogila) in Plovdiv became a hub for games, inspiration, and new knowledge for families and children over the course of three days. As an official partner of the event, the Ministry of Interior established a large-scale presence, revealing to the general public the specifics of the professions and the daily challenges faced by its employees.
Specialized equipment designed for maintaining public order, providing assistance in critical situations, and preventing crime was showcased in tents by a number of departments. The initiative saw active participation from the General Directorate "National Police", the General Directorate "Border Police", the General Directorate "Fire Safety and Civil Protection", the Plovdiv Regional Directorate of the Ministry of Interior, as well as the National System for Emergency Calls with the single European number 112. The program also included attractive demonstrations with trained police dogs and officers from the mounted police, which provided a practical illustration of some of their activities.
The opportunity to get a glimpse into the lives of firefighters and police officers made a strong impression on the younger generation. The children not only examined the professional equipment up close but also stepped into the shoes of law enforcement officers, trying on uniforms and asking questions about their schedules and workday. In parallel, the "Juvenile Delinquency" sector of the General Directorate of National Police conducted educational presentations adapted to the children's age. The focus there was placed on rights and responsibilities under the law, analyzing dangers in today's dynamic environment to stimulate critical thinking and the ability to make informed decisions under pressure or temptation.
With the upcoming school year in mind, the "Traffic Police" placed a strong emphasis on children's road safety. The officers reminded them of the traffic rules and urged the children to be vigilant:
- to always cross at designated areas;
- not to run suddenly onto the road;
- to look both ways carefully before crossing;
- to avoid using mobile phones and headphones that distract attention.
By combining practical activities, demonstrations, and games, the Ministry of Interior's participation in KIDS EXPO PLOVDIV 2026 achieved its main goal – to introduce the public to the important role of law enforcement and to build a lasting understanding of responsibility and safety among the youth.